Autonomy Plan, Only Credible, Realistic Solution to Resolve Sahara Issue (Cabo Verdean FM)
The Cabo Verdean Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Regional Integration Rui Alberto de Figueiredo Soares reaffirmed, Tuesday in Rabat, his country’s “firm” support to the Moroccanness of the Sahara, stressing that the autonomy plan, presented by Morocco, is the “only credible and realistic solution” for the resolution of this dispute.
“We reiterate our firm support for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom and all efforts that are led by Morocco at the United Nations” to resolve the Sahara issue, said Soares at a press briefing held at the end of the 2nd Morocco-Cabo Verde Great Joint Cooperation Commission, which he co-chaired with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates Nasser Bourita.
Referring to bilateral relations between Rabat and Praia, Soares commended Morocco’s interest in developing cooperation with Cabo Verde, welcoming the signing, on the occasion of this 2nd Great Joint Commission, of nine cooperation agreements with the Kingdom covering many areas.
In this regard, the Cabo Verdean top diplomat cited the signing of a visa waiver agreement for holders of ordinary passports, which is able to strengthen tourist flows and trade between the two countries.
“We also look forward with great enthusiasm to the upcoming opening of the Moroccan Embassy in Praia, which will be another sign to support the deepening of our relations,” he said.
For his part, Bourita said that “Morocco thanks the Republic of Cabo Verde for its consistent positions on the issue of the Moroccan Sahara.”
“Since the withdrawal of the recognition of the puppet republic in 2007 (editor’s note: by Cabo Verde), there has been a great evolution in this position, as illustrated recently by the opening of a Cabo Verde consulate in the southern provinces in August 2022,” he said.
Bourita noted that bilateral relations are constantly evolving, believing that the 2nd Grand Joint Commission and the exchange of sectoral visits will support this positive dynamic.
“There is a willingness of the Kingdom in accordance with the High Instructions of HM King Mohammed VI to support all development efforts of the authorities of Cabo Verde,” he said, adding that Morocco follows and welcomes all the reforms underway in this country, as well as the clear vision of its high authorities in development.
MAP: 09 mai 2023